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Mon, 10 Jul 2017 04:42:10 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.2113378540What Happens When You Suffer a Delayed Postpartum Hemorrhagehttps://www.themombeforethestorm.com/what-happens-when-you-suffer-a-delayed-postpartum-hemorrhage/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/what-happens-when-you-suffer-a-delayed-postpartum-hemorrhage/#commentsSun, 09 Jul 2017 20:29:37 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?p=558POSTPARTUM HEMORRHAGE It wasn’t until I returned home from the hospital after suffering a delayed postpartum hemorrhage that I realized, “Holy sh*t, I could have died!” AWAKEN It was a sobering Saturday morning. I awoke to the sound of my middle daughter calling out my name, “Mommy. Mommy.” The blue volume light on the baby […]

POSTPARTUM HEMORRHAGE

It wasn’t until I returned home from the hospital after suffering a delayed postpartum hemorrhage that I realized, “Holy sh*t, I could have died!”

AWAKEN

It was a sobering Saturday morning. I awoke to the sound of my middle daughter calling out my name, “Mommy. Mommy.” The blue volume light on the baby monitor cascading up and down, up and down. I sprung out of bed and dashed to her room. My goal was to calm her down before she woke up both her new baby sister snuggled soundly in her bassinet and her older sister snuggled soundly in her top bunk.

I snuck into the room and lay next to her on the bottom bunk. On my way there, I felt an unexpected gush of blood. “That’s weird,” I thought.

At this point in my postpartum recovery, I was still bleeding slightly, which is considered normal. I did notice the day before that my bleeding became a little heavier. The postpartum guideline is always if you are soaking more than one sanitary pad an hour, call your doctor. Well, it was heavier, but not that heavy.

IT BEGINS

As I lay next to Violet’s bunk, the “gush” was clearly not stopping. I reached down to feel my pajama pants. Even in the dimly lit bedroom, I saw my hand covered in blood. I whispered to my daughter, “I will be back to check on you real quick sweetheart.” “Ok mommy,” she responded sweetly.

I darted back to our master bathroom to reveal a fully saturated pad. The bleeding continued. There was A LOT of blood. As I was sitting there, it was like a faucet suddenly turned on. I frantically called for my husband. He drowsily stumbled into the bathroom and I showed him the situation. His hands cupped his face as he stammered, “Oh my God. Who should I call? Who should I call?”

CALL 911

It was 6 a.m., so our instinct was to call 911. There was no way this was a “normal” amount of blood. He dialed frantically and kept asking me if I was ok. He was worried I was going to pass out.

The paramedics arrived and took my vital signs. At that point, I was still stable. But, the bleeding continued. My husband was unimpressed with the response of the paramedics. The sense of urgency was lacking. The only thing I can chalk it up to was the lack of visibility. They could not see just how much blood I was losing in that moment.

That, or they could have been distracted by my sexy postpartum leopard granny panties. They were fortunate enough to get a glimpse of said panties before they escorted me to the ambulance. Yes, the team of six highly trained paramedics and firefighters may not have been overly empathetic, but they were surely prompt. They had arrived at our house before I had the chance to slip on some damn pants.

All the commotion woke up Lucy as well. When the paramedics got to the house, my husband scurried around to get the girls settled. He sat them down on the couch and entranced them with an episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.

MY FIRST RIDE IN AN AMBULANCE

Our home resides on a pretty steep hill. They could not get the gurney into the house. So, they helped walk me out to the ambulance rather than wheeling me out. This exit proved to be less alarming for our children. My little girls did not have to see me in a state of emergency.

Luckily, our hospital is less than five miles from our house. The paramedic in the back of the ambulance kept questioning me and asking how much I was bleeding. I could not adequately convey just how much was continuing to flow. It was difficult for me to quantify. It was not until we reached the emergency room that he realized the sheer amount. My bleeding soaked through the ambulance gurney mattress and left a sizable pool of blood.

WHAT WAS YOUR BLOOD COUNT?

Upon my arrival, the team of nurses helped me get undressed and cleaned up. Well, cleaned up as best they could. The postpartum hemorrhage was not stopping anytime soon. They set me up with a couple of different IV’s to pump various treatments into me. All of their efforts were, of course, to compensate for the amount of blood exiting my body. My blood count continued to drop further and further. I was not too familiar with hemoglobin levels until going through this event.

Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying pigment in the blood, the predominant protein in the red blood cells. Typical ranges for hemoglobin depend on a person’s age and gender. The average hemoglobin for adult males is 14-18 gm/dl; grams (gm) per deciliter (dl) of whole blood, a deciliter being 100 milliliters. The average for adult women is 12-16 gm/dl.

I was already slightly anemic throughout this third pregnancy. But, due to the continuous bleeding, I was on a rapid decline, 10, 9, 7, finally slipping down to 6. When you catch all of the medical professionals furrowing their brows in concern, you know it’s bad.

UNDERSTANDING MY BLOOD PRESSURE

In conjunction with the drop in my hemoglobin came a severe drop in my blood pressure as well. I confess I do not always know where my blood pressure resides nor do I know what the numbers mean. When they take my blood pressure at various doctors appointments, they just tell me what it is, and I ask, “Is that good?”

So, for those of you like me, who may not know how those numbers translate, here it is for you. According to WebMD, “A blood pressure reading appears as two numbers. The first and higher of the two is a measure of systolic pressure, or the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and fills them with blood. The second number measures diastolic pressure, or the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats. Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 (systolic/diastolic).”

THE WAVE

As I lay there bleeding, my blood pressure took a sudden and sharp downward spiral. The machines I was hooked up to began to beep rapidly. All of a sudden it was like a massive wave washed over me. I grabbed hold of the railing on the hospital bed, thinking it would anchor me. But, holding on did not relieve the terrible feeling. I felt dizzy and lightheaded. I was totally disoriented. It was like I was free falling and wanted to reach out and grab something to get me to stop.

At this point, I was by myself. My mom was en route to the hospital. My husband, still bound to the house with our three kiddos, called her to let her know what was going on with me.

That was when my blood pressure first dipped. The nurses rushed in and injected me with various medicines. To restore blood flow to my head, they lowered the front of my hospital bed, so my feet were elevated. The team acted fast, and in a matter of minutes, the wave subsided.

ORDER THE BLOOD

It was at that point that I heard the nurses asking the resident doctor if they should order a bag of blood for a transfusion. They were not seeing improvement with my bleeding or my blood levels and wanted to be properly prepared.

I have to say, all of the emergency room staff were ah-mazing! They all worked tirelessly to restore my health. They did their very best to keep me as comfortable as possible and reacted to each hurdle with great care and empathy.

MOMS ARE STRONG

When my mom arrived, she exuded positivity and encouragement in the wake of this scary postpartum hemorrhage. It was not until my blood pressure dropped for the second time, and she witnessed the barrage of nurses and doctors race into my room, that her eyes began to well up with tears. This time, my blood pressure dipped to an all-time low of 83/31. Yikes! They managed to stabilize me once again, but it took them a lot longer the second time around.

My mom is one tough cookie, but seeing your child in pain is one of the worst feelings in the world. She managed to compose herself quickly because she did not want to worry me. But, again, that is tough to do when you are forced to see your loved one suffering.

After that incident, she immediately called my husband to update him on my status. She advised him to come to the ER as soon as possible. My in-laws swiftly showed up to our house to relieve him and take care of our girlies. Thank goodness we have family in town.

WHAT IS GOING ON?

The next and most crucial step was to determine why the HELL I was bleeding so much. Why was I suffering a postpartum hemorrhage? They waited until my blood pressure was stable again and then wheeled me off for a comprehensive ultrasound.

I winced in discomfort as the technician pushed down on my stomach to gather the images. My nurse stayed with me throughout the exam, and when he glimpsed my pained face, he reached down, lovingly grabbed my hand and said, “squeeze as hard as you need sweetie.”

FEELING HELPLESS

The emergency room doctor informed my OB-GYN as to what was happening. When I returned from the ultrasound, they let me know she was on her way. It was then that my husband arrived. I think the postpartum hemorrhage, and the amount of blood I was losing, was way more intense than he had anticipated.

Often, when you see the person you love placed in such a scary situation, your feelings inevitably pour out of your eyeballs! It is especially emotional because you feel helpless. He wanted to swoop in and make this all go away, but he couldn’t.

TIME TO TAKE ACTION

By the time my OB-GYN arrived, they had already given me two bags of blood. My doctor proceeded to inform me of my options. After reviewing the ultrasound results, they discovered I had a piece of afterbirth remaining inside my uterus. They needed to go in to remove it. This course of action would, hopefully, stop the bleeding. They could not determine if it was a clot or a retained piece of placenta, but my uterus was contracting and trying to expel the remnant from my body. However, my uterus is apparently LAZY and while making unsuccessful attempts to contract a blood vessel burst. This burst blood vessel resulted in profuse bleeding. Of course, to suffer a delayed postpartum hemorrhage is a very rare occurrence. Slacker uterus!

According to March of Dimes, “a postpartum hemorrhage (also called PPH) is when a woman has heavy bleeding after giving birth. It’s a serious but rare condition. It usually happens within one day of giving birth, but it can happen up to 12 weeks after having a baby. About 1 to 5 in 100 women who have a baby (1 to 5 percent) have PPH. PPH can cause a severe drop in blood pressure. If not treated quickly, this can lead to shock and death. Shock is when your body organs don’t get enough blood flow.”

So, I just happened to be one of the lucky 1-5%! Yeah for me.

The first step was to perform a dilation and curettage (D&C). A D&C is a procedure to remove tissue from inside your uterus. If that did not work, the second attempt would be to perform a uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). The last resort, a hysterectomy.

SCREW YOU UTERUS!

I was trying to stay strong during this ordeal, but at this point of exhaustion, I told my OB-GYN, “Do whatever you need to do. I trust you.” By now, I was OVER bleeding! “Please, make it stop. Please make it stop” I pleaded in my head.

I signed the necessary paperwork for the procedure, which included signing off on all of the warnings regarding the risks of anesthesia and my full understanding of a hysterectomy (if it came to that point while I was under).

I said my final goodbyes and was hurriedly whisked away by the staff. As they wheeled me through the hallways and into the operating room, I was hopeful that the postpartum hemorrhage would finally come to a positive resolution.

OFF TO SLEEP

The entire operating team did their best to put my mind at ease. All words spoken were positive and reassuring. They collectively lifted me onto the operating table, and the anesthesiologist introduced himself with a warm, welcoming smile. Before I knew it, I felt the cool mask surround my nose and mouth. I inhaled and exhaled slowly as my mind wandered. My eyelids grew heavier and heavier as I finally drifted off to sleep.

*Stay tuned for the continuation of my postpartum hemorrhage scare. I will discuss both my mental and physical recovery. I had intended this post to be the final installment in a blog series I started back in January titled, Why Do Events Happen in Threes? But, it took me months to wrap my brain around my experience, and then put into the precise words what I was feeling in that nerve-wracking moment in time. I put my story out there for anyone who may benefit, learn, or identify with it.

There are more stories out there that go unheard. Anastasia and Timoria also faced postpartum hemorrhaging. Read their compelling tales for more insight.

Until I faced this nightmare, I was unaware and uneducated about this particular aspect of maternal health. Globally, 830 women die from childbirth or pregnancy-related complications each year. Unfortunately, most deaths occurred in low-resource settings. What is so disheartening is that most deaths are preventable.

Did you or someone you know experience complications due to childbirth?

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/what-happens-when-you-suffer-a-delayed-postpartum-hemorrhage/feed/14558Get These Popular Must Have Essentials for Summerhttps://www.themombeforethestorm.com/get-popular-must-essentials-summer/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/get-popular-must-essentials-summer/#respondWed, 21 Jun 2017 05:12:48 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?p=769Alright, for most of you, it is already summer break. I myself am finally on summer vacation as of yesterday. So, let the summer shopping commence! Of course, I have another informative installment from my style guru, Miss Kate. She let me in on what is trending and what is considered the must-have essentials this summer: As […]

Alright, for most of you, it is already summer break. I myself am finally on summer vacation as of yesterday. So, let the summer shopping commence! Of course, I have another informative installment from my style guru, Miss Kate. She let me in on what is trending and what is considered the must-have essentials this summer:

As spring turns to summer, I thought a list of summer must-haves are in order. This summer I am all about being in style, while also being extremely comfortable. These looks are perfect and practical for the on the go mom.

Click any image below to shop these styles!

Everything Linen

Linen is extremely comfortable and lightweight, making it the perfect summer fabric. Lounge pants are a hot trend right now and the best part about them is you feel like you are wearing pajama pants all day. Now, who doesn’t want that?

Along the lines of comfortable material, tunics and blousy white tops/dresses are a timeless piece that can serve multiple purposes. They are suitable for a summer beach day, running errands or cover-up for the pool.

Stripes Galore

Stripes have been on trend for awhile now and there are so many ways of styling stripes. For summer, opt for a lighter and brighter stripe. Instead of black and white, try a pale blue and white. Not only are lighter colors more appropriate for summer, but they make your summer glow stand out. To play it safe I have a stripe in every category in my closet; a shirt, pants, jumpsuit, dress, shorts, and even light throw over sweater. To say I am obsessed is an understatement. Stripes are a must have for your summer closet and can also be repurposed for the seasons to come.

Pastel Colors

While shopping for your summer wardrobe, keep in mind colors that are in trend. Pastels are big right now; especially pale pink, blue, and yellow. The colors are bright, fun, and feminine, making you feel in the summer spirit.

Hopefully, this post helps you plan your summer closet and points you towards some of the hottest trends. Fashion is all about comfort in my eyes, making me look forward to this summer season!

Kate is a Southern California girl who is soaking up her college years and pursuing her passions. She loves anything creative or design related and is currently studying Graphic Design at Point Loma Nazarene University. Kate also enjoys writing and recently started a blog Update Kate. Through it, she shares inspiration, photos, encouragement, and much more. She is excited to team up with The Mom Before the Storm to share her ideas with a brand new audience.

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/get-popular-must-essentials-summer/feed/0769How to Make the Most Scrumptious and Easy Grain-Free Granolahttps://www.themombeforethestorm.com/recipe/how-to-make-the-most-scrumptious-and-easy-grain-free-granola/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/recipe/how-to-make-the-most-scrumptious-and-easy-grain-free-granola/#respondTue, 04 Apr 2017 22:02:33 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?post_type=recipe&p=673GRAIN-FREE GRANOLA It’s true. Eating healthy can be fun, delicious, and still indulgent (i.e. my grain-free granola). Before getting pregnant with my third child, I was diligent about living the Paleo lifestyle. The result. I felt the best I had in years! The Paleo way of life worked for me. It may not be for […]

GRAIN-FREE GRANOLA

It’s true. Eating healthy can be fun, delicious, and still indulgent (i.e. my grain-free granola). Before getting pregnant with my third child, I was diligent about living the Paleo lifestyle. The result. I felt the best I had in years! The Paleo way of life worked for me. It may not be for everyone, but I discovered that it is optimal for my body. I found that I lost weight, increased my energy levels, and experienced an overall improvement in my health.

Right now, I find myself in the after baby limbo phase. I’ve lost some weight, but I still don’t fit into my pre-baby pants! For me, the six weeks post baby landed right around Christmas. Let’s just say, I was not so careful about what I chose to consume.

Now, I am back on track. I’m working my way back to my pre-baby self by eating healthy and getting plenty of exercise. I am not one of those ladies out there who shrink right back down to size after giving birth. For me, it takes time, dedication, diligence, and hard work. With my two other kiddos, it took me a solid year to get back into shape and that is ok!

For this reason, I am always looking for healthier versions of my favorite foods. This time, granola!

GRANOLA FOR ANYONE

Yes, this granola is grain-free. But, you do not have to be on the Paleo bandwagon to enjoy this grain-free granola. My true test is always my children. Will they eat it? Will they enjoy it? The answer is a resounding yes! On the plus side, this grain-free granola contains omega-3s, protein, and healthy fats while the honey adds a natural sweetness. Honey is still sugar, so only a small amount is used in this recipe.

VARIATIONS

If you prefer your granola with larger chunks of nuts, you do not have to food process the almonds and coconut flakes. I do this for kid-friendliness. My oldest daughter has a real issue with texture. If you choose to not food process the sliced almonds and coconut flakes, be sure to play around with the cooking time. I advise cooking at 350 degrees in increments of 4 minutes. Cook 4 minutes, then stir. Continue this process until you reach your desired taste. Some people like it more toasted and crunchy than others.

BOTTOM LINE

I love this grain-free granola because it’s simple, sweet, and satisfying! You can also customize it to your liking. Make it your own by adding your favorite seeds, nuts, or dried fruit.

If you give this recipe a whirl, let me know! Leave a comment, rate it, or take a picture and tag it #themombeforethestorm on Instagram!

Enjoy!

What are some of your go-to breakfasts?

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.

In a small bowl, scramble the egg whites. Add egg whites to mixing bowl.

Mix all ingredients together until evenly coated with the egg whites.

Spread mixture out flat on the baking sheet.

Bake 5 minutes. Then, stir granola and spread flat again.

Bake 5 minutes. Stir granola and spread flat.

Bake 2 minutes. Stir granola and spread flat.

Bake 2 minutes.

Remove from the oven and let rest 1 minute.

Store in an air-tight container. Granola is good for a few weeks.

Recipe Notes

*I process the cashews, sliced almonds, and coconut flakes separately to achieve the texture I want for each ingredient. Be aware that if you over-process them, they will become too milled.
*The mixture will crisp up fast in the oven. For this reason, be sure to use a timer and check the granola frequently.

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/recipe/how-to-make-the-most-scrumptious-and-easy-grain-free-granola/feed/0673How to Make Simple and Amazing Guilt-Free Chocolate Chip Cookieshttps://www.themombeforethestorm.com/recipe/how-to-make-simple-amazing-guilt-free-chocolate-chip-cookies/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/recipe/how-to-make-simple-amazing-guilt-free-chocolate-chip-cookies/#respondWed, 08 Mar 2017 17:18:49 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?post_type=recipe&p=570GUILT-FREE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES Well, last month I had my six-week postpartum checkup, and my doctor cleared me for physical activity. So, it’s been back to exercising! Mission get rid of the baby weight is in full effect. But, let’s get serious now. I know myself, and I know that I am not good at following diets. My weakness is […]

GUILT-FREE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

Well, last month I had my six-week postpartum checkup, and my doctor cleared me for physical activity. So, it’s been back to exercising! Mission get rid of the baby weight is in full effect. But, let’s get serious now. I know myself, and I know that I am not good at following diets. My weakness is sweets. I MUST indulge in a tasty treat from time to time to stay sane. So, why not make a healthier version? That is why I plan to whip up a batch of my guilt-free chocolate chip cookies.

EVERYTHING IN MODERATION

Over the years, I have realized the only thing that works for me is a combination of both diet and exercise. However, I firmly believe that you should not deprive yourself. I have a massive sweet tooth! If I go without treats and I don’t allow myself to splurge once in a while, I find that I will eventually binge on all of the bad processed food products!

What works for me is creating healthier versions of my favorite desserts. For example, classic chocolate chip cookies. A staple and satisfying treat anytime. This recipe is not only super easy and delicious, but it also fits many dietary goals: gluten-free, low-carb, and Paleo.

They are also a great alternative for my kiddos. We often have to bribe them to eat their vegetables. As long as this is the case, I want to keep healthier treats on hand to distribute after dinner. They don’t know the difference, and these cookies are a sure-fire hit (even when I substitute cacao nibs for chocolate chips).

EAT REAL FOOD

I will be adding more recipes to the blog that use “real” ingredients. Ironically, I started with dessert. You can see where my focus is currently! But, I will also be covering meals, snacks, even cocktails! My ultimate goal is to remove all processed food from my pantry. I have not reached my goal yet, but I am working my way there.

For now, life is too short. So, start with dessert! Enjoy these guilt-free chocolate chip cookies.

What are your favorite guilt-free dessert recipes? Please share.

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/recipe/how-to-make-simple-amazing-guilt-free-chocolate-chip-cookies/feed/0570What to Wear Now to Feel Amazing This Valentine’s Dayhttps://www.themombeforethestorm.com/what-to-wear-now-to-feel-amazing-this-valentines-day/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/what-to-wear-now-to-feel-amazing-this-valentines-day/#respondSat, 11 Feb 2017 03:07:48 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?p=623So, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. If you are planning a special night out or simply need some fashion tips, check out these excellent suggestions. With pleasure, I welcome back the lovely Kate for my monthly style update. I love seeing what she picks out! She has an amazing eye for fashion and […]

So, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. If you are planning a special night out or simply need some fashion tips, check out these excellent suggestions. With pleasure, I welcome back the lovely Kate for my monthly style update. I love seeing what she picks out! She has an amazing eye for fashion and design. This month I particularly liked the suggestion of using one base piece and then changing/adding a few items to transition from day to evening with ease. Easy and manageable is what I need right now!

Here she is:

With Valentine’s Day just a few days away, I thought I would give some outfit ideas for the big day. However, you can still incorporate these monthly fashion favorites into your daily wardrobe. I love the month of February because everyone seems a little more aware of the feeling of love and the need to show more compassion towards others. Something I am all for this month! Whether that be showing your spouse or significant other you care or doing something special for your friends and family, love can take many forms. You do not have to have a hot date or significant other to celebrate. Now, let’s get into this month’s look!

First, the basis for the outfit: the jumpsuit.

THE BASE

Jumpsuits are my new favorite clothing trend because they are flattering, comfortable to wear, and are adaptable. Jumpsuits can also be dressed up or down in an abundance of ways. I recently purchased a jumpsuit from Target that is super trendy, feminine, and affordable. But, feel free to use any jumpsuit you feel confident wearing. I would suggest a more basic color/patterned jumpsuit, so it is easier to add different accessories and clothing items.

ADD A STAPLE PIECE

For during the day when you are either running around with the kiddos or just running errands, I suggest pairing the jumpsuit with a staple piece (my personal favorite), the denim jean jacket.

PICK DAYTIME SHOES

For shoes, you can go for the sporty and comfy look by wearing slip-on sneakers or go for the more feminine approach with some ankle booties or strappy sandals. Depending on the length of the pant, you may want a little more shape. Adding a heeled ankle boot is a perfect solution. It will give you a little bit of height and will elongate the leg, adding shape. If you need a more professional look during the day, I would recommend wearing the heeled ankle boot or a lace-up flat (another trend I have loved for awhile). It adds a chic edge to the look.

TRANSITION TO EVENING

You already have the base of your outfit, the jumpsuit. Next, all you have to do is add some pizzazz! Pair the jumpsuit with a fitted blazer or cute cropped open cardigan. You want to be careful about the size and length of your overcoat because if it is too long or too slouchy, it can overtake the jumpsuit and leave you with no definition or shape.

SELECT EVENING SHOES

For shoes, you could opt for a heeled ankle boot again, or even a block heel sandal if that is comfortable for you. Inspired by the lace-up flat look, for the evening footwear, I am using the lace up platform shoes. Both shoes may not look the most comfortable at first glance, but do not be fooled! They are the comfiest shoes I own! The laces on the shoe add a little something extra and give off a flirtier vibe. Perfect for Valentine’s Day.

ACCESSORIZE

For accessories, you could wear a statement necklace or earrings. Personally, I am more of a “less is more” kind of girl, so I typically pair everything I wear, day or night, with some staple gold layering necklaces and a few stacking rings. It is a delicate and classic jewelry approach.

Click any image below to shop these styles!

This entire look gives off a romantic vibe which is fitting for Valentine’s Day. I also find that a jumpsuit is pleasing to people of all different body types, shapes, and sizes because of the various styles and patterns available. By interchanging or adding just a couple pieces, the outfit transforms into something brand new. Hopefully, this post gave you some pre-Valentine’s Day inspiration or just fashion inspiration in general. I hope you demonstrate your love a little more this month and feel a little extra loved as well!

Kate is a Southern California girl who is soaking up her college years and pursuing her passions. She loves anything creative or design related and is currently studying Graphic Design at Point Loma Nazarene University. Kate also enjoys writing and recently started a blog Update Kate. Through it, she shares inspiration, photos, encouragement, and much more. She is excited to team up with The Mom Before the Storm to share her ideas with a brand new audience.

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/what-to-wear-now-to-feel-amazing-this-valentines-day/feed/0623Fashion Favorites January 2017https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/fashion-favorites-january-2017/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/fashion-favorites-january-2017/#respondWed, 25 Jan 2017 14:00:54 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?p=512As a mom, I feel way better when my clothes are fashionable. But, most importantly, I want them to fit and make me feel good. Most days I consider myself “dressed” once I slip into my yoga pants and throw on a t-shirt. When I actually have to look presentable, I do believe I can […]

As a mom, I feel way better when my clothes are fashionable. But, most importantly, I want them to fit and make me feel good. Most days I consider myself “dressed” once I slip into my yoga pants and throw on a t-shirt. When I actually have to look presentable, I do believe I can put together a decent outfit. But, as someone who relies strictly on Target as my trend guide, I often enlist others to tell me what is “in” for the fashion season. For this reason, I have recruited someone younger and much more hip than myself to provide useful picks for all you ladies out there. I admire her style immensely and pretty much copy her closet! She is currently in college and works as a fashion consultant at Anthropologie. I am super excited because she will be providing style guides each month. Yeah! Without further adieu, I am delighted to welcome my husband’s cousin, Kate Erath of Update Kate.

Here she is…

This month, I will be sharing some fashion must-haves and standouts for January. I am tailoring this post to moms on the go who want to keep up with the latest trends and need an outfit to be quick and easy to put together.

Click any image below to shop these styles!

1) Blanket Scarf

One item I can not live without this winter season is a blanket scarf. The blanket scarf is a perfect accessory to throw on when you are running out the door. It can elevate an outfit while keeping you warm and bundled. It can be styled in a variety of ways and depending on the pattern it can go with just about anything.

2) Striped Button Down Shirt

A striped button-down shirt is my next must have item. It is yet another great staple piece to add to your wardrobe. It is cute, comfortable, and you can style it in many ways. Are you starting to see a theme here? Wear it with skinny jeans, tuck it into a skirt or flared pant or even tie it around your waist. Are you looking for a little more of a cropped and fitted look? Knot the bottom of the shirt and pair it with a cute camisole top or a plain t-shirt underneath. Roll the sleeves up or leave them down. You can even throw an adorable leather or jean jacket over it. The possibilities are truly endless!

3) Off the Shoulder Sweater

The last clothing item I love this season is an off the shoulder sweater. This type of top is a flirtier look but still comfortable and casual. The style is flattering on all body types and, if you do not want to show off your shoulders, you can always wear a shirt or tank top underneath. I like this piece because it gives the sweater look a little extra flare. My favorite pairing is an off the shoulder sweater and some loose boyfriend jeans. Finish the look off with a pair of tennis shoes or ankle booties. This outfit will make you feel put together and ready for anything that comes your way; whether it is a day at the zoo or a trip to the supermarket.

I hope you were style inspired by these recommendations. Watch out for more fashion picks in the months to come! If you want even more ideas, you can head over to my personal blog to see more fun trends.

Kate is a Southern California girl who is soaking up her college years and pursuing her passions. She loves anything creative or design related and is currently studying Graphic Design at Point Loma Nazarene University. Kate also enjoys writing and recently started a blog Update Kate. Through it, she shares inspiration, photos, encouragement, and much more. She is excited to team up with The Mom Before the Storm to share her ideas with a brand new audience.

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/fashion-favorites-january-2017/feed/0512How to Handle a Toddler Tooth Extractionhttps://www.themombeforethestorm.com/how-to-handle-a-toddler-tooth-extraction/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/how-to-handle-a-toddler-tooth-extraction/#respondMon, 23 Jan 2017 14:00:12 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?p=406After the dentist had informed us that our two and a half year old would need her abscessed tooth pulled, we had some decisions to make. We had to think long and hard about how to handle a toddler tooth extraction. So, let me get this straight. We welcomed our third baby, discovered a dental abscess […]

After the dentist had informed us that our two and a half year old would need her abscessed tooth pulled, we had some decisions to make. We had to think long and hard about how to handle a toddler tooth extraction.

WHICH METHOD TO CHOOSE?

Use nitrous oxide, “laughing gas,” to relax her before the pull. Then, they would numb the gum, inject it with novocaine, and pull the tooth.

Use anesthesia and put her under completely.

I instantly thought anesthesia would be too drastic and dangerous. Then again, our little Violet, who we also dubbed “Violet Monster” since she was one year old, may be too erratic to handle the extraction. We had this vision of her flailing and not sitting still.

GATHERING INFORMATION

We called the anesthesiologist, and he graciously answered many questions for us. He was on vacation with his family and still picked up his phone! We were obviously nervous about the procedures in place, in case something went wrong. The extraction happens in the pediatric dental office. As concerned parents, this is not a hospital, so we were concerned about what they would do if an emergency situation occurred with the anesthesia. The anesthesiologist reassured us that he has done this for a decade and worked with thousands of toddlers. Not once had he experienced an emergency.

That said, we were also concerned about the effects of anesthesia on someone so young. That is when the anesthesiologist explained to us that he uses what is called Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC). Basically, with a toddler, they use the least amount necessary to keep them under, and it is monitored continuously throughout the procedure by the anesthesiologist.

STILL NOT SOLD

The unnerving part would be that we would not be able to be with her. If we used the anesthesia, parents are not allowed to be in the room. I understand this completely, but I still did not like the idea of having to wait for her to wake up before I could be by her side again. In the end, the price tag was the determining factor. We were on the fence anyway about anesthesia, but with an $800 price tag, this was not going to be the route we were able to take.

NITROUS OXIDE IT IS

So, bring on the nitrous oxide. The pediatric dentist office gave us a little mask to practice with at home. This practice session at home would allow Violet to get used to having the mask on her nose since she would need to be breathing into it throughout the entire procedure. The masks were different colors with a matching smell. Violet chose the pink bubble gum scented mask to take home with us. This seemed like a good start on how to handle a toddler tooth extraction.

PREPARING FOR THE PULL AT HOME

We did not start prepping for the pull until a couple of days before the extraction. We did not want to put those thoughts in Violet’s mind too far in advance. However, she probably knew something was up since we kept examining the injured tooth!

I bought a couple of cute tooth fairy tokens as a new incentive. Violet loves Peppa Pig, so I purchased a Peppa Pig book about losing a tooth. It was fantastic because Peppa loses a front tooth, just like Violet was about to lose.

I also bought a tooth fairy souvenir box. It is super cute and stores all of your baby teeth in a sweet little memory album.

We kept explaining to Violet that the dentist was going to make her tooth feel better. The dentist was going to take the tooth out like Peppa’s and that the tooth fairy would pay her a very special visit. She seemed receptive to this information, but at this young age, we were not certain how much she was fully grasping.

GETTING RELAXED

The day came, and I was probably more nervous than Violet! Emilia did not sleep hardly at all the night before, so my husband and I were “running on fumes” as my parents used to say. That morning, she was not to eat anything two hours before receiving the nitrous oxide. Well, that is super hard for my toddler with the insatiable appetite and her appointment was not until 11 a.m. She managed well when I told her we would get a scrumptious treat to devour after the dentist.

My husband and I both went to the appointment with her. We wanted as much moral support as possible, as we did not know how she would handle this event. They allowed both of us to stay in the room with her during the extraction.

As they walked us back into the room, Violet started to tense up a little bit. At first, she did not want to sit in the chair, even though there was a giant plush zebra sprawled on top. I offered up my phone because she loves to watch nursery rhymes on YouTube kids. That instantly relaxed her, and I was able to coax her onto the examination chair.

Today’s pediatric dentists provide all of the bells and whistles. As a second mode of distraction, they played Frozen on the television suspended from the ceiling.

PICK YOUR POISON

Next, she picked her nitrous oxide mask of choice. This time she selected the red cherry scented mask. She had to breathe the nitrous oxide for about five to seven minutes before she began to relax and they could start.

She was very cooperative, to our relief. The dental hygienist and the dentist were beyond amazing. They were extremely patient and spoke to her in the most gentle of voices. As Violet began to get a little silly from the gas, she looked up at the hygienist and said, “I seeeeee you.” We all chuckled at her cute happy little voice.

NUMB THE GUM

The next step was numbing the area. They put little sunglasses on her eyes for protection. By this time she had lost interest in the YouTube videos on my phone and was only focused on the television above her, entranced by Elsa’s magic. My husband was gently holding her hands by her side. It was not necessary to restrain Violet because she was incredibly cooperative.

They placed numbing gel on her tooth, then injected her with “sleepy juice,” their kid-friendly term for novocaine. The staff is cautious not to show the needle to the child, phew! That thing was massive. She tolerated it no problem; did not feel a thing.

Then, there was the pull. I could not look. My husband watched, I turned my head. Before I knew it, the tooth was out. It only took a few minutes, as it was already pretty loose. Once the tooth was out, the rest of the bacteria from the abscess drained, ensuring the elimination of the infection.

They cleaned off her tooth and put it into a tiny decorative box for her to take home. While doing this, Violet had to keep breathing into her mask for another five minutes. They pumped pure oxygen through the mask to get rid of the remaining nitrous oxide.

THE AFTERMATH

My Violet was a real champ! When all was said and done, she walked out of the examination room waving to everyone with a huge smile on her face. “BYE BYE! SEE YA LATER!” she shouted gleefully. It was like nothing happened. They let her pick two trinkets from the toy box this time around. By the way, now at the kid’s dentist, you get some legit toys. I remember getting a bouncy ball or something similar. This contemporary toy box offers princess crowns, decks of cards, stuffed animals, puzzles, play doh, the works!

Probably the most challenging part was the remaining numbness. It takes an hour or so to wear off. I could tell Violet was slightly uncomfortable. Other than that, she did not have residual bleeding (which they said could happen, especially because she is a thumb sucker). She also did not get nausea or throw up, which can also be a side effect of the nitrous oxide.

TREAT TIME

We ended the experience with a well-deserved trip to Baskin Robbins. Violet requested “geeeen” ice cream. So, by golly, green ice cream is what she got! A healthy scoop of delicious mint chip!

To sum up, the day could not have gone smoother. She was excited to go home and show her sisters her missing tooth.

THE FIRST VISIT FROM THE TOOTH FAIRY

As promised there was a monetary prize waiting for her the next morning under her pillow. I don’t know what the going rate is, but the “tooth fairy” left her five dollars for her troubles.

How to handle a toddler tooth extraction will be different depending on your child. This strategy is what worked for us. The main thing I would stress to all parents is to find a pediatric dentist that fits ALL of your needs. If you are not entirely comfortable with their style, keep looking. It makes a world of difference in your child’s dental care.

What tips and tricks work for your child and their dental visits?

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/how-to-handle-a-toddler-tooth-extraction/feed/0406Do Not Ignore Your Child’s Dental Abscesshttps://www.themombeforethestorm.com/do-not-ignore-your-childs-dental-abscess/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/do-not-ignore-your-childs-dental-abscess/#respondWed, 18 Jan 2017 14:00:54 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?p=399Trust your parental instincts and do not ignore your child’s dental abscess. On day four of having our little Emilia home from the hospital, we were still in zombie parent mode. Our first girls totally spoiled us. They slept long stretches through the night, even when we first brought them home. Emila not so much. That’s […]

On day four of having our little Emilia home from the hospital, we were still in zombie parent mode. Our first girls totally spoiled us. They slept long stretches through the night, even when we first brought them home. Emila not so much. That’s ok, though. Emilia is such an adorable baby. I think we’ll keep her anyway!

THREE GIRLS, THREE UNIQUE PERSONALITIES

We now have three amazing daughters. It is too early to determine my youngest’s personality traits. She is only one-month-old. Now, Lucy, my oldest reminds me of myself. She is more analytical and cautious. She likes to check things out, observe for a little while, then take action. From what I can tell thus far, my middle daughter is the opposite, and I appreciate her fearlessness.

Violet does not typically survey situations before moving forward. Rather, she vigorously jumps into those situations, often head first. At two and a half years old, this leads to the obvious head abrasions, cuts, scrapes, bruises, and all of the like.

A TRAUMATIZED TOOTH

About three weeks ago, my little Violet was running clumsily, tripped, fell, and landed flat on her lovely little face. This type of fall is not an uncommon toddler injury. Children fall all the time. Unless you plan on wrapping your child in bubble wrap, they will inevitably suffer from the occasional injury.

Unfortunately, Violet landed on her front tooth, and it began to stream blood. After she would finally let us look at the injured tooth, we discovered that it became very loose.

She hit this exact tooth one other time as well, six months prior. The on-call nurse at the time told us to keep a watch on it, but that the gum should firm up again within 1-2 weeks and the tooth would return to normal. To our delight, after two weeks, the tooth was no longer wiggly, and it did go back to normal. However, the recent fall was more severe. The tooth remained loose for about a month.

DISCOVERING THE DENTAL ABSCESS

Then, on day four of having Emilia home from the hospital (two days before Christmas), I noticed a large pimple-like bump above the injured tooth. After Googling this “bump” for quite some time, it seemed to be what is called a dental abscess. Of course, I have a terrible tendency to become consumed with medical conditions, symptoms, and treatments. I can’t help myself. I have to look up everything on the internet. My parents happened to be over when I noticed the dental abscess. My father kept saying, “Don’t obsess over this.” This directive I am all too familiar with because I’ve been a worry wart since I was a child.

I snuck off into the other room to call our pediatric dentist, knowing they were off for Christmas, but hoping for a referral contact. Luckily, on their voicemail, they provide a number to call in the case of a dental emergency. I speedily dialed the number and left a detailed message.

The next day was Christmas Eve. Since I did not hear back from anyone, I decided to call again. Too much of what I read online suggested this dental abscess, this bacterial infection, should not go untreated.

AN ABSCESS IS A DENTAL EMERGENCY

When I called again in the morning, the dentist picked up. Yeah! She apologized and said she did not receive my previous voicemail. From my description alone, she said it did sound like an abscess. She had me take a picture and text it to her for review. After that visual confirmation, she said there was no doubt it was a dental abscess. She ordered a prescription to clear up the bacterial infection. The bombshell was when she stated that they might need to perform an extraction. Truthfully, it was not a bombshell, based on the information I found online. I was just keeping my fingers crossed that it would not come to that extreme.

Apparently, when the tooth suffers trauma such as this, the root is sometimes broken or destroyed, and the tooth permanently dies. We scheduled Violet for an examination as soon as possible, which was two days after Christmas when the office reopened.

A SECOND OPINION

Coincidentally, my aunt Barbara (who is a dentist) came to visit the new baby the day before we were scheduled to visit our pediatric dentist. Getting a second opinion was great. She confirmed that often with a child’s dental abscess, you must remove the baby tooth to preserve the permanent tooth.Without an x-ray, she could not confirm this 100%, but at least we felt reassured this was a standard course of action for this situation. My aunt also said that sometimes they perform what is called a pulpotomy, a “baby root canal.”

COURSE OF ACTION

At the appointment, they examined the tooth, the abscess, and reviewed the x-rays. It was a big bummer because the dentist confirmed that the tooth needed to come out. On the x-ray, she pointed out the infection and the destroyed root. I asked about a pulpotomy, but she said they do not typically perform that procedure on someone so young. It was also more invasive and would not guarantee to resolve the infection. The only guaranteed way to get rid of the dental abscess, prevent the bacteria from spreading, and preserve the permanent tooth was to extract the infected and dead baby tooth. Apparently, if left untreated, the dental abscess can migrate to other parts of the body and become quite dangerous. See Dear Dad. I am glad I followed my motherly instincts!

MY POOR BABY

After the dentist diagnosed the tooth and recommended treatment, I got a little teary. In conjunction with my, “just had a baby” hormones, I welled up for a few reasons:

One was guilt. Was there something we could have done to prevent this dental abscess from forming? The dentist reassured me that there was nothing we could have done. Half the time children fall, a traumatized tooth returns to normal without significant issues, and half the time the tooth develops an abscess and becomes infected. Again, unless we plan on wrapping our children in bubble wrap, they will suffer the occasional injury. Unfortunately, in Violet’s case, it was just too bad a fall this go around.

Second, and purely superficial, was the gap that would remain in her mouth. Violet’s permanent front tooth will not come until she is 7 or 8 years old. This gap was also closely tied to the guilt factor, feeling like there was something we could have done to prevent this from happening.

The third and the most emotional reason I began to cry was at the thought of the procedure, the tooth extraction. My poor baby was going to have to go through this ordeal at two and a half years old!

What dental emergencies have you faced with your child?

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/do-not-ignore-your-childs-dental-abscess/feed/0399Our Third Baby Girl Arriveshttps://www.themombeforethestorm.com/our-third-baby-girl-arrives/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/our-third-baby-girl-arrives/#commentsTue, 17 Jan 2017 14:00:32 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?p=412Our third baby girl arrives, finally making her debut on Monday, December 19th, 2016. PAST DUE My due date comes and goes! Friday, December 16th, 2016. No sign of my water breaking. No contractions. I was beyond ready to deliver. By the end, you become super uncomfortable. I would urge all new moms to take […]

Our third baby girl arrives, finally making her debut on Monday, December 19th, 2016.

PAST DUE

My due date comes and goes! Friday, December 16th, 2016. No sign of my water breaking. No contractions. I was beyond ready to deliver. By the end, you become super uncomfortable. I would urge all new moms to take advantage of any spare time they may have with their first pregnancy. Get your nails done, get a massage, sleep as much as you can. With every subsequent pregnancy, you will be chasing your other kiddo(s) around. There is no “down time.”

EVICTION NOTICE

I was only three days late, but that was enough for me! I empathize with any of you out there who were past your due date. Some of you up to two weeks! By Sunday, I was ready to try all the “natural” inducers. We packed up the troops and tromped around Sea World the entire day. I was going to walk around as much as possible and get things moving. That night, I consumed the spiciest salsa I could find. I am not sure if this helped, but at 2 a.m. Monday morning, I began to experience contractions.

EARLY LABOR PHASE

My husband was sound asleep, and I did not want to wake him until I knew this was the real deal. With every pain, I began to inhale and exhale more slowly and loudly. My deep breathing eventually woke him up, and he turned to me and asked, “Are you ok?” I had no idea I was that audible. So, needless to say, it was time.

LET THE CRAZY PREGNANT LADY DO AS SHE PLEASES

He called his parents quickly so that he could drop off the kids. I stayed at the house to get ready. I may have panicked my husband a bit. He wanted me to go with him to take the kids and then head straight to the hospital because he was worried labor might progress faster since this was our third baby.

I had other plans. I wanted to feel comfortable before departing. So, I straightened up a little around the house and slapped on a light coat of makeup. Crazy? Yes! However, it would be hours and hours before I could take a shower and feel fresh again. Therefore, I was the one in labor, and I was the one about to deliver my third and final child, let me do things the way I want. Plus, my in-laws and the hospital are all within our five-mile radius. So, I felt like there was time. In hindsight, probably not the smartest move. Luckily, my gamble paid off, and the baby stayed safely in my cozy and luxurious womb until we reached the hospital.

My husband did not say a word. He indulged my craziness, and as soon as he got back from dropping off the kids, he swooped me up, and we were off in a flash. Upon my arrival, they checked me into a triage room. They wanted to monitor my contractions, and if things did not progress, they would most likely send me home.

EARLY LABOR PHASE CONTINUES

The contractions continued to grow stronger and stronger. All of them were under five minutes apart. When I first got there, I was four centimeters dilated. After calling my doctor, the nurse instructed me to walk around in the hallway to see if that would move things further along. So, we paced up and down for an hour or so. I would pull over to the side for my contraction pit stops, taking hold of whatever was closest, be it a pillar, chair, etc.

ACTIVE LABOR PHASE

Once I returned to my triage room, they checked me again, and I had reached five centimeters. The doctor felt I was progressing at a good pace and so they admitted me to a delivery room. One helpful tip we discovered with my first delivery was for my husband to squeeze my hand during contractions. Typically, the woman squeezes her partner’s hand, but that sure takes it out of you. If your partner squeezes your hand instead, it serves the same purpose, but you save your energy for delivery.

I continued to labor until about 9 a.m. when I received my epidural. If you opt to have a natural birth, more power to you. I completely support whatever you want to do. I am not one to pass judgment on other mothers for their choices. For me, I wanted my epidural!

The anesthesiologist was insanely fast. After checking my back with a specialized ultrasound, he numbed the area, then inserted the huge needle into my spine. After a short period, I was feeling no pain.

My mom and husband kept me company while I waited. I am always incredibly hungry after giving birth! I was cracking my mom up because I kept discussing what I was going to eat after delivering.

When I stopped progressing as planned, the doctor paid me a visit to break my water. Then, she ordered a dose of Pitocin to keep things moving.

TRANSITION PHASE

Shortly before delivering, the baby’s heart rate began to drop. I experienced this with Violet as well. The nurses rushed in to assist. They moved me on my side and gave me an oxygen mask. Next, they monitored the baby’s heart rate internally with a wire called an “electrode.” The nurse places it on the baby’s scalp. Normally, this would be very alarming. But, since we had dealt with this once before, we knew what to expect.

When I reached full dilation, they had me do a couple of rounds of practice pushes. I have been lucky, in that, I have never had to push for very long during delivery. In this delivery, it was the same case. They had me stop pushing, and we waited for the doctor to return.

While we waited, my nurse got the room set up, and they laid out all of the necessary medical tools.

SHE’S HERE!

When the doctor returned, it was time! I only pushed two or three times before we heard the cries of our newest baby at 1:33 p.m. Our third baby girl arrives! She weighed seven pounds nine ounces and was twenty inches long. This moment was the first, and most joyous, in the sequence of events over the last three weeks.

With our other girl’s births, I did not cry. Just being able to have a baby overwhelmed me with happiness. A broad smile was permanently on my face.

But this time around, since I knew this was our last child, I was certainly misty. I was all smiles, but I also shed some salty tears.

They placed Emilia gently on my chest for a cuddle. Like with my other girlies, I was immediately in love. It never ceases to amaze me how much you can instantly love this new little person in your life. The birth of a child is truly a blessing and a miracle. So were the mouth-watering cheeseburger and fries I devoured that evening!

What sentiments did you take away from your birth story?

]]>https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/our-third-baby-girl-arrives/feed/2412Why Do Events Happen in Threes?https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/why-do-events-happen-in-threes/
https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/why-do-events-happen-in-threes/#respondMon, 16 Jan 2017 14:00:32 +0000https://www.themombeforethestorm.com/?p=391It has been my experience that things happen in threes. But why? Why do events happen in threes? IT SEEMS ALL TOO REAL I have lived this truth too many times. A couple of years ago, we had one of these patterns. First, our washing machine broke, followed by a pipe breaking under our kitchen […]

It has been my experience that things happen in threes. But why? Why do events happen in threes?

IT SEEMS ALL TOO REAL

I have lived this truth too many times. A couple of years ago, we had one of these patterns. First, our washing machine broke, followed by a pipe breaking under our kitchen sink, capped off by a major clog in one of our toilets.

New washing machine $525

Repaired pipe $320

Snaking of toilet $180

___________________________________

Total damage $1025

Cha-ching, cha-ching, cha-ching. By the way, just because it says “flushable wipes,” beware. We used these type of wipes while potty training my oldest and this was the sole cause of the costly clog.

Of course, this rule of three may not always consist of adverse incidents. As mentioned in my bio, I landed my first teaching job, got engaged/married, and bought a house all in a single year. These were all great and very exciting events!

THE QUESTION REMAINS, WHY DO EVENTS HAPPEN IN THREES?

Let’s examine and explore:

1) Narratives typically follow a three act structure.

First act is the exposition (introduction)

Second act includes the rising action

Third act features the climax, falling action, and resolution

2) In children’s fairy tales, many plots highlight the rule three. For instance, we are all familiar with Goldilocks and the Three Bears and The Three Little Pigs.

3) In religion, there is the Christian doctrine of The Holy Trinity.

4) In the standard oration, speakers often look to include three attributes that stress the major points or reinforce a critical idea in their speech. For example:

“Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” – the American Declaration of Independence

“Government of the people, by the people, for the people.” – the Gettysburg Address

“Friends, Romans, Countrymen” – William Shakespeare in Julius Caesar

It is no wonder we look for the “rule of three.” This pattern permeates our societal culture and, in turn, fills our brains. It invites us to make strong connections to our life experiences. I am not sure how grounded, in fact, this phenomenon is, but it sure feels accurate.

ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE VULNERABLE

The rule of three is this strange phenomenon that always seems to come to fruition, at least for me. In the coming posts, I will be taking a look back at the last three weeks in my life and three major events that occurred. When I started this blog last month, I had no idea that the title, The Mom Before The Storm, would prove to be so on point. Honestly, I had no idea what the impending storm would entail.

I am sharing this Why Do Events Happen in Threes? blog series as a reflection of strength. On the whole, it has been challenging, emotional, and many tears continue to fall. Nonetheless, I have been able to reach a positive place slowly. Certainly, I could not have handled the highs and lows of these moments without the support of my family and friends. Equally important, I have realized that it is ok to surrender to your feelings. Let it all out! Above all, I am mindful that it is alright to ask for help. People want to help, so let them. You do not have to be “Superwoman.” You are not weak, nor will you be perceived as weak. To allow yourself to be vulnerable is healthy and necessary for personal growth.

January 6, 2017: Nineteen days after giving birth, I landed in the emergency room due to delayed postpartum hemorrhaging. This postpartum hemorrhage was, by far, the scariest moment I have been through in my life.